After the pandemonium, Carlton swiftly retreated to his private chamber. The seven wailing children were promptly handed over to Alaric, as Carlton deemed it prudent not to involve himself further lest another absurd debacle ensue.
Lucas, now properly attired, accompanied Carlton back to his chamber with an air of calm composure that secretly earned him a thumbs up from the young Duke. Had it been anyone else in Lucas' predicament - naked and exposed before the entire royal family - they would likely have sequestered themselves away out of sheer fear and humiliation.
However, upon reaching Carlton's doorstep, events took an unexpected turn. Lucas abruptly knelt before Carlton and began pounding his head against the floor in a show of contrition.
"Empress! Forgive me!!!"
"...!!!!!!!!!"
Carlton stood stunned for a moment, his usually stoic visage registering shock at this unforeseen display. His mind raced as he struggled to process Lucas' sudden capitulation.
